The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we conduct ourselves in public spaces and social gatherings. Distancing is a must, and everyone is doing everything they can to prevent the spread of this virus. There is a lot of information available about this virus, and some of it can be confusing, so it is important that you check sources that are reliable.
Washing your hands regularly and social distancing are both very important but many people are wondering if wearing glasses will protect them from COVID-19 as well. Some reports stated that wearing glasses may actually increase the risk of COVID-19 because you are more likely to touch your face to adjust your frames, while other reports stated that wearing glasses all day could protect you from COVID-19 infections. The reality is that there is a lot more research that needs to be done to determine the exact effects of wearing glasses in relation to the virus but it can be said that eye protection can have a protective effect. It may not be completely effective or as effective as wearing a mask or social distancing but it can help to some extent.
Researchers are looking into the connection between this virus and eye glasses to determine the extent of the protection it can offer and how effective it actually is. The research that has been conducted up to this point shows that the eyes are vulnerable to COVID-19, so it is possible to contract this virus through your eyes. Rubbing your eyes can lead to the transmission of the virus, so while eye protection is not 100% effective, it can help and can reduce the risk of the COVID-19 infection.
Eye protection would be helpful for health care providers treating COVID-19 patients and those caring for sick patients at home but it does not mean everyone should go out and buy glasses because they offer low levels of protection. If you wear eyeglasses, you can continue doing so with peace of mind and enjoy the possibility of protection, and if you are used to contact lenses, it is recommended that you stick to whatever you normally use because glasses do not provide enough protection from the virus to make the switch, so it would not be worth it. Additionally, if you are not used to glasses, you may fidget and play with your glasses more, and this contact would increase the chances of transmitting the virus from your hands to your face, and this could make matters worse.
The bottom line is that if you wear glasses, continue to do so and if you wear contact lenses, continue wearing them as well. Orangeville Optometric Centre can answer any questions you have regarding eyewear and the pandemic, so do not hesitate to contact us. We have taken every possible in-office precaution and developed comprehensive safety routines to ensure the well-being of our clients. Whether you need eyeglass frames or contact lenses, we can take care of all of your eye care needs, so if you are in Orangeville, give us a call today!
